Lake Accotink in Virginia

Trip Overview

This county park is a gem of green space in the middle of one of the most densely populated counties in America. It is a small artificial lake with no motor boats allowed.

The best part is to paddle up the creek and watch for wildlife. Easy to observe a wide variety of birds including eagles, ospreys and 4 kinds of herons, plus turtles, snakes, frogs, beaver, muskrat, deer, and fox occassionally. Park biologist says there are river otters, too.

More water than ever before since the dam has been repaired and the dredging is on-going. Out and back totals between 3 and 4 miles. I paddle here every summer weekend leading guided trips. It is never the same twice!

Accommodations:

Easy access from sand beach, no fee for your own boat, fishing permitted, picnic areas and bike/hike trail around park.

Directions:

Take Backlick Road south from Braddock Rd (617) toward Springfield, VA (just SW of Washington, DC). West (right) on Highland Street (follow park sign). Bear right at sign for Accotink Park, then left into park drive. You may drive on to the sand to unload boats, but must park in marked spaces.